Tiki Iniki is a new restaurant/bar about to open next month, owned and operated by Todd and Michele Rundgren, (Yes that Todd Rundgren) in the heart of the Princeville Town Center on the north shore of Kauai. I had the privilege of attending a private launch party and the food was incredible, the cocktail menu unique and tasty and it wasn't even the full menu for either. The decor was designed and built by 3rd generation and legendary Tiki builder, Bamboo Ben. The place looks fantastic, with a rock lava waterfalls wall and attention to the smallest detail through out. There is even an "archway" ode to the Coco Palms, the legendary hotel on Kauai. Its a mid size place, seating for about 65, when including the Lanai. Not sure what music will be played when opened, while Todd did perform a few songs with a live band for the party, but sure it will be location appropriate. While the food is top notch, will be moderately priced (cocktails as well).

If you are the north shore of Kauai, starting next month... go check it out!

A few photos from the Festivities:

Todd and Michele: Michele serving Todd a big cocktail offering: Todd Performing: Michele and Me (Tikiboy): Michele with a friend, who made the mosaic table top!

Just got back from the grand opening. Bamboo Ben did the usual amazing job, great Tipsy factor, rattan, puffer fish, float lights, tapa lights, and knick knacks. They have 3 tiki mugs with their logo that look like standard tiki farm mugs: Ku, Lono, and Rarotonga. The drinks are all fresh juices and syrups. It was opening night and the place was packed, so the bartenders need to work on consistency, but overall better than the syrupy sweet crap you generally get on the islands. The Mai Tai is trader Vic version, the Zombie is Don the Beachcomber 1950's version, they make a great Singapore sling variation, and dacquri.
Food is farm to table and was hit or miss, but again it was a packed opening night. Overall this is a welcome North Shore addition to the legendary Tahiti Nui for the tiki Ohana. It is obvious they Todd and Michelle are taking this endeavor seriously, and I expect the drinks and food to become more consistent. The staff and manager Madison were friendly and enthusiastic. I have some pics, that I will post when I get back to the mainland, but I assume you already saw the tiki mag article.

On 2013-10-26 00:21, Atomic Tiki Punk wrote:Well Ben, I stand by my friends & I say we boycott Tiki Iniki
bad word of mouth in the Tiki community is not a good way for a Tiki bar
to start-up & is not conducive to a long life span.

Right on ATP. I saw Ben's Shout message and thought maybe he was joking. I even asked as much. I will be in that area in February and was planning on stopping by but it looks like those plans have changed.